Affiliations: School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's
University, Kingston, ON, Canada | Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering,
Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada | School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University,
Kingston, ON, Canada
Note: [] Corresponding author: Susan A. Reid, School of Kinesiology and
Health Studies, Biomechanics and Ergonomics Lab, 28 Division St., Queen's
University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada. Tel.: +1 613 533 6000, ext. 7-5290;
E-mail: sar@queenus.ca
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: In this paper, Dr. Joan Stevenson's work on assessment of
the effects of lifting, supporting and transporting loads is reviewed. A
defining attribute of this work is the use of objective, biomechanical measures
as the basis from which a fuller understanding of all factors affecting worker
performance can be obtained, and how such performance should be measured and
evaluated. METHODS: The central objectives and conclusions of Dr. Stevenson's
research programs spanning the years from 1985 through 2012 are summarized and
discussed in terms of an overall research trajectory. CONCLUSIONS: The guiding principle of Dr. Stevenson's work is to
reduce the potential harm to which workers are exposed through the development
of bona fide occupational standards, a better understanding of risk factors
leading to low back pain, and the establishment of an enhanced objective design
process for functional load-bearing clothing and equipment.
